Courtney Brooke

B.S. Ecology - Odum School of Ecology Affiliated Teacher with Permaculture in New Zealand

My work is driven by a deep passion for rekindling a spark for living holistically in a way that honors and considers human ecological identity. I have a background in ecological studies, programme development, dynamic group facilitation & environmental education. I work with the Institute of Earthcare Education Aotearoa design landscapes, educational experiences and dynamic group facilitation that deepens our relationships with each other and our environment.

I am an Affiliated Teacher with Permaculture in New Zealand and have studied with teachers and mentors such as David Holmgren, Robina McCurdy, Dan Palmer, Patricia Allison, Zev Friedman,Finn Mackesy, Robin Clayfield, Annaliese Hordern, and Ross Mars. At the moment, I am in pursuit of a Professional Diploma in Permaculture Education with Permaculture Institute North America (PINA).

I believe natural ecosystems are our most regal teachers and carry all the blueprints we need to find positive solutions to the pressing issues we’re facing today. Spending much of my life living regenerative farming and community living, these passions have led me to initiating and participating in cooperatively gardening, seed saving co-operative, Deep Ecology processes, natural food processing and regenerative health practices.

I have a passion for designing beautiful and functional systems that support the vitality of both landscapes and the people that call them home. Years of land-based living, ecological studies, participatory design practices, environmental education and passion for community experiences feeds my work in facilitating Permaculture Design Courses and other transformative, environmental education experiences. I'm excited by curriculum development and enjoy designing learning tools, processes and experiences that empower people's earth-based identity and enthusiasm for positive action.

Though I've run educational experiences in a range of contexts including nature centers, community gardens, elementary schools, adventure education camps and wilderness exploration, currently I work mainly teaching Permaculture right off the land.